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1 September 2026

Baltic Way and Gandhian non-violence

The topic provides a strong historical case study on the global influence of Gandhian non-violence and offers context for India's diplomatic relations with Baltic states, though it lacks the direct policy or treaty significance required for a higher rating.

1 min read 2 questions 2 prelims

Notes

  • The Baltic Way (August 23, 1989) was a 675-kilometre human chain spanning Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius, involving two million people.
  • The event marked the 50th anniversary of the 1939 Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, which facilitated the Soviet annexation of the Baltic states.
  • The movement was a key component of the 'Singing Revolution' (1986-91), which utilised non-violent resistance, songs, and civil disobedience.
  • Baltic leaders explicitly adopted Gandhian principles of ahimsa, satyagraha, and non-cooperation to resist Soviet occupation.
  • The 1982 film 'Gandhi' was used as an educational tool in Lithuania to promote non-violent resistance strategies.
  • The Baltic Way led to the acknowledgement of the secret protocol of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact and the restoration of Baltic independence in 1991.
  • The Baltic Way is inscribed in the UNESCO Memory of the World Register and holds Guinness World Records recognition.
  • India-Baltic relations are supported by cultural and historical ties, including the legacy of Hermann Kallenbach and various Gandhi memorials.
  • Bilateral trade data for 2025-26: Lithuania ($490.61 million), Latvia ($475.66 million), and Estonia ($219.69 million).

Questions

  1. Examine the role of non-violent resistance as a tool for national liberation, drawing parallels between the Indian freedom struggle and the Baltic 'Singing Revolution'. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. The principles of Gandhian non-violence have transcended geographical boundaries to influence global movements for democracy and human rights. Discuss the relevance of these principles in contemporary international relations and their role in shaping the soft power of India. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. The 'Baltic Way' was a historic human chain organised to protest against the legacy of which agreement?

  2. Which of the following countries were involved in the 1989 'Baltic Way' human chain?

Syllabus

Topics

Sources

250words.in · https://250words.in/daily/2026-09-01/baltic-way-and-gandhian-non-violence